Hardwood flooring not only feels warm and comfortable to walk on barefoot, but it also gives a home a luxurious look. These qualities appeal to homeowners who put a premium on comfort and luxury.
If you're considering installing hardwood floors in your home, the best way to maximize their performance and lifespan is to take proper care of them. Explore these five essential tips for hardwood flooring maintenance.
Clean Your Floors Regularly
There's no such thing as self-cleaning floors. You should sweep, dust or vacuum your floors at least once per week to prevent a buildup of dirt and grime on the floors. Avoid cleaning your floors using a vacuum with a beater bar attached, as this will damage the wood.
One important thing to bear in mind is that water is an enemy of wood. When it comes to damp mopping, use manufacturer-recommended hardwood floor cleaners instead of water to protect your floors from water damage.
Also, don't let spills sit on your floors — wipe them up quickly before they soak into the floors.
Protect Your Floors From UV Radiation
Constant exposure to the sun's UV light can cause your hardwood floors to fade quickly. To prevent this, you can install UV-inhibiting treatments on your home windows. This way, natural lighting can still come into your home but without the undesirable UV radiation.
Protect High-Traffic Areas of the Home With Rugs
Placing rugs in areas of the home that receive a lot of traffic during the day can help to protect your flooring's finish. Rugs work well in living rooms, dining areas and along the hallways.
Use a Doormat
Dirt particles accelerate wear of hardwood floors by scuffing the surfaces, especially in homes that get a lot of traffic. Without a doormat to trap the dirt that people have on their shoes when coming from outside, your wood floors will wane quickly.
Renew Your Floors Occasionally
One of the major selling points of hardwood floors is that they can be renewed many times without requiring complete removal. All you have to do to make your floors look like new again is a little sanding and fresh paint or stain job.
Hardwood flooring doesn't come by cheap, but if maintained properly, it's an investment that will pay off handsomely. To get the most out of your new wood floors, you should let a timber floor contractor help you take care of them.